At the incident, the BBS leader, who was in no way involved in the case, stood up from among those seated watching the proceedings, and addressed the open court, threatening Sandhya Eknaligoda, whose case was being heard.

He was arrested the following day, sparking protests by his followers outside the Homagama Magistrates’ Court.

Gnanasara Thera was convicted for assault with criminal force with the intent to dishonor and for criminal intention under 346 and 486 of the Penal Code.